M3 gauge cluster swap: trouble with coding
 

I've swapped an S52 from a '98 M3 sedan (originally with auto trans) into my '96 318ti (originally with manual trans), replacing the M52 that I previously swapped in 2013. I also replaced the previously-swapped 328i gauge cluster in my 318ti with the one from the M3 because I like the cool "M" logo. :biggrin:

However, I cannot communicate using either the INPA or GT1 (DIS v44) software programs with the new cluster (known as KOMBI in tech-speak).

Using the GT1/DIS program on my laptop, I get the following message:

"KOMBI
does not respond! Is the ignition ON?
Is the battery
charged
sufficiently? Is
the control unit OK?"

Yes, the ignition was on and the battery was hooked up to a 2-amp charger. I was able to code the pertinent codes from the M3 chassis (GM, SA and VN) into the EWS-II using GT1/DIS, but I know from the previous engine swap that I need to change the GM code within the KOMBI to code out the EGS -- in other words, enter the GM code from a manual car into the KOMBI, which also essentially codes the EWS and DME so that the DME stops looking for the auto trans "brain." Otherwise, I will keep getting a Check Engine light error number "217 Timeout CAN-message of EGS"

Similar to the error message shown above, using the INPA program I get the following message:

"Variant checking
IFH-0006: COMMAND NOT ACCEPTED. Program will be stopped!"

The car otherwise runs great, and the MPG gauge works just like it did with the 328i dash cluster. Has anyone else successfully swapped in an M3 gauge cluster into a 318ti chassis and still be able to communicate with the cluster using INPA or DIS? I might have to swap the 328i cluster back in and see if that works...

I am pretty sure the wiring for the 318ti's instrument cluster omits the wires and contacts from the diagnostic bus to the cluster, connector X16, pins 11 and 12, which would explain your laptop not finding it.

Compare the connections in a non-compact E36

http://www.unofficialbmw.com/john/mi...er_RxD_TxD.gif

to the connections in a compact

http://www.unofficialbmw.com/john/mi...er_RxD_TxD.gif

I installed a M3 cluster in my ti that I bought off ebay and had no issues whatsoever. My S52 was from a manual and so was the cluster. I did wire in the mpg so it would function properly! The communication through the obd2 port into my ipad app functions fine.

Thanks for the help. The weird thing is that I was able to communicate with the old 328i cluster, but I can no longer do so. For now, I was able to update the GM code in the EWS, and I'm no longer getting the EGS error (and no Check Engine light anymore, either). I'll keep driving it and watch to see if the error codes return.